Former BAE Systems Site May See New Use

The site that formerly held BAE Systems in Westover could see some new uses for the property. An outlet mall, an adults sports complex, and a mobile-home park are three possibilities the town is considering for the 27-acre plot at 600 Main Street in Westover. The facility was closed after floodwaters destroyed the property two years ago, and the U.S. Air Force will be demolishing the facility in the future. When that takes place, the Town of Union will look to decide upon a suggestion for new purposing for the land. The Broome Communities Steering Committee will be tasked with developing a plan to secure $15.6 million in federal funds to better prepare the county for future flooding that may take place, $3.6 million of which would go to the Town of Union. Different projects are being considered by the committee, including enhancing floodwall protection and redeveloping the land beneath the BAE site. While the Air Force has not given a specific date for taking down the 600,000 square-foot building in Westover, once demolition is completed the land will be turned over to the Broome County Industrial Agency, and from there the redevelopment process can officially begin.